The PGA Sports Academy introduces youth, ages 7 to 13, to the sport of golf to help young people build character, and develop healthy and active lifestyles. Golf is a fun, active game that gives young people stamina, focus and skill, while exposing them to a lifelong leisure activity, and an opportunity for personal and professional development.

In January 2012, The Professional Golfers’ Association of America (PGA) and the United States Golf Association (USGA) partnered with Boys & Girls Clubs of America (BGCA) as their Official Youth Development Partner in a five-year mission to introduce youth nationwide to the game of golf.Selected cities and Clubs will host the PGA Sports Academy program which introduces members to the fundamentals of golf in a Club environment.

ThePGA Sports Academyprogram is taught by PGA professionals utilizing golf instruction, sports, fitness and games to help youth learn golf in an interactive setting.Instruction may take place in a gym, open space or an outdoor area. Contests and games may be used to reinforce skills learned in a fun and non-competitive manner. The program concludes with members visiting a local golf course where they’ll have the opportunity to transition their newly-learned skills at the golf course.

Golf training equipment and instructional support from PGA professionals will be provided through this partnership to help youth build character, develop healthy lifestyles, and learn the game of golf.Over the next five years, The PGA, USGA and BGCA will extend the range of golf opportunities to members and their families, including special golf fun days at local Boys & Girls Clubs, family days at local courses, invitations to golf clinics and tournaments, and the development of league play.

In a 2007 Harris Interactive survey, 51 percent of Club alumni say they achieved a higher level of education than they thought possible because of attending their Club.